Long-Term Morphology Modeling for Barrier Island Tidal Inlets

Abstract

has developed the Coastal Modeling System (CMS) as a coupled wave, hydrodynamic, and sediment transport numerical modeling system. The primary focus of this study is to validate CMS for long-term applications through simulations of tidal inlet evolution and verify the results against established theoretical and empirical formulations that describe the stability and equilibrium conditions of tidal inlets. A wide range of conditions are chosen to test the breadth of model applicability including varying waves, tide and inlet geomorphic characteristics. The model is run for 100 years and the resulting morphological state is gauged in terms of inlet stability theory. Overall, CMS compares well to theoretically and empirically predicted inlet cross-sectional areas with some noted deviations due in part to the artificial nature of the idealized inlet geometry. The sharp spatial transition at either end of the inlet throat leads to artificially large gradients that may increase erosion and associated cross-sectional area. The results suggest that CMS can efficiently and accurately, to the degree of available empirical information, quantify long-term evolution of barrier island tidal inlet systems. DISCLAIMER: The contents of this report are not to be used for advertising, publication, or promotional purposes. Citation of trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products. All product names and trademarks cited are the property of their respective owners. The findings of this report are not to be construed as an official Department of the Army position unless so designated by other authorized documents.

Coupling Relationship of Human Activity and Geographical Environment in Stage-Specific Development of Urban Coastal Zone: A Case Study of Quanzhou Bay, China (1954–2020)

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